Welcome to my story.

On the 11th November 2010, I found out that I am a carrier of the BRCA2 gene mutation.  I discovered  that I was carrying the gene that was responsible for the numerous family incidents of early onset breast cancer and the gene that had killed several members of my family including my father.

I was told that although there was nothing wrong with me right now, there was an 85% chance that I would develop breast cancer and also there was a very high probability that I would develop ovarian cancer.

This knowledge felt as if a genie had been unleashed; one that was warning me, preparing me for what may happen in the future.
 
Although initially terrifying, I began to realise that this genie was actually giving me an opportunity to change this predicted course and was allowing me to dictate and secure my future health and happiness.
I now had the opportunity to take dramatic action. I could opt to undergo two major operations which would hopefully give me the chance to save my life.

I have tried to record my journey to make something positive come out of my experience.  I have quickly learnt that there is a huge support network for those people who are diagnosed with cancer but there is very little support for those of us who are told that we are so dangerously at risk of cancer. 

I want to ensure that the next person who is told that they carry a BRCA gene mutation doesn’t, as I did, end up desperately searching the web for information only to come across frightening stories and statistics. Instead, I want to help these people find positive stories of hope and if I can, help them navigate through the fear and help them through the good and bad times.

Not Ready to Die by Claire Whittaker from Neale James on Vimeo.

Most importantly, I want to be able to help show other BRCA carriers that they need not carry the burden of doom but instead realise that this knowledge, this genie, can empower them and be something that is actually an incredible gift.

From here, you can read My story, my account of My operations so far, see the Press coverage gained as I try to raise awareness by telling my story, and visit my blog where you will find regular updates on my journey.